'Western powers chose the wrong side' - Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Western powers have pressured him to moderate his criticism of the Israeli government.

In response, Anwar countered that these powers have chosen the wrong side.

"I've faced numerous criticisms and threats.

"I remain resolutely in support of the Palestinian people.

"Malaysia is a sovereign, free, and independent nation. We will continue to uphold freedom, including the freedom of the Palestinian people," he declared at the Himpunan 1,000,000 Malaysia Bersama Palestine gathering.

The event at Axiata Arena attracted over 15,000 participants, showing their solidarity with the Palestinians.

Prominent attendees included Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, and Deputy Finance Ministers Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan and Steven Sim.

Organised by a coalition of Malaysian NGOs, the gathering aimed to amplify the nation's backing for the Palestinian cause.

The event stressed three objectives: calling for an end to the Palestine conflict, halting violence against vulnerable groups in Palestine, and rallying Muslim voices around the world.

According to Anwar, under his leadership, Malaysia actively supports Palestine by directly engaging with Islamic world leaders.

Anwar said he conveyed Malaysia's stance to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Salman, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.